A fine Mesopotamian lapis lazuli amulet of a quadruped, possibly a porcupine. The animal is depicted in profile and features a curved body with short stocky legs and a long pointed snout. Subtle grooves give definition to the body and a small incised dot depicts the eye. The back of the amulet is plain and smooth. The amulet is pierced through the top for suspension. Some chipping to the legs and the back of the snout. Scratches and earthy encrustation to the surface. The piece is accompanied by a paper description signed by Professor W. G. Lambert, the famous Assyriologist. Lapis lazuli stone was highly regarded in the ancient Near East. It was customary for rulers and members of the elite to be buried with ornaments made partly or entirely of this semi-precious stone. The first use of this beautiful, vibrant rich blue stone dates back to the Neolithic, when it was first mined and exported to the Mediterranean and South Asia. Measurements: (circa) L 2.4cm x W 3.6cm x H 0.7cm Provenance: Ex. 1990s London collections, studied and catalogued by professor Lambert in the early 90s.